Act Now, Lead Together: Service Conference Empowers ICS Students

Written by Grade 9 students Rediet E. and Meklit M.
Edited by G11 student Millen A.

In one of Uganda's native languages, the phrase "Kola Kati" translates to "Act Now."

This was the theme of the Association of International School Africa Global Issues Service Summit (AISA GISS) 2025, hosted by the International School of Uganda. The conference united like-minded student leaders from international schools in Africa. The summit emphasized immediate action toward global challenges through collaboration and service.

Students joined various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) workshops where they deepened their understanding through engaging, hands-on activities. Some visited hospitals to play with children, while others went to farms to plant trees and learn about environmental sustainability. These experiences highlighted the importance of direct community engagement in creating real change.

The summit also provided leadership opportunities through student-led workshops. ICS Addis students led three:

• Empty Bowls, which aims to resolve hunger
• Burn Care, which helps victims of burns and fires
• Project Burayu, which aims to provide clean water

These workshops allowed students to take the initiative and educate others on critical social issues.

The summit had many guest speakers including Abramz Tekya, the founder of Breakdance Project Uganda, as well as dancer and Kyaninga Mobility Ambassador Rogers Bisereko. They were among several others who shared powerful insights, inspiring students to take action in their communities. We were particularly inspired by initiatives from other schools, such as the International School of Uganda's collaboration with the Deaf People Alliance, which sparked discussions on implementing similar programs in our school.

Cultural performances enriched the whole experience, allowing participants to engage with diverse African traditions. The summit also created an opportunity for students to bond with one another, strengthening friendships within our school community while forming new connections with peers from different countries.

Beyond the structured activities, AISA GISS 2025 was a platform for learning, leadership, and collaboration, reinforcing the urgency of acting now to create a better future.